Serious Game

Downy mildew and powdery mildew are major threats to vineyards, typically managed with frequent fungicide use. The GrapeBreed4IPM project aims to reduce pesticide reliance by promoting existing and new grapevines varieties, resistant to diseases (DRVs). Nonetheless, pathogen populations can adapt to new plant material and overcome resistance. Strategic deployment of new plant materials is a key leverage to ensure long-term durability of disease resistance in grapevine varieties. To support this, the project developed an educational board game titled Resist Me If You Can. Up to four players (or teams) act as winegrowers seeking to balance productivity and sustainability over 10 growing seasons. Players aim to reduce fungicide use, maintain yields, and avoid the loss of all pathogen effectors, which would signal that downy mildew populations have adapted to DRV and that resistance was breakdown. The game helps winegrowers, advisors, students, and the public understand the complex interaction between DRVs, pathogen evolution, and integrated pest management (IPM). It mirrors real-life challenges, showing that DRVs must still be supported by IPM tools such as biocontrol, improved spraying, and monitoring. A key message is that poor decisions by one player can impact the entire group—just like in actual viticulture.

The first version of the game has been tested with diverse audiences, including project members, during dedicated events. Feedback has been very positive. Only minor improvements are needed, which do not affect the existing game materials. As a result, the first printed versions are already suitable for various outreach activities. Overall, this game is a practical tool to promote understanding of resistance management, encourage collective strategies, and support pesticide reduction without compromising profitability. Several partners across Europe have expressed interest in translating and using the game, making it a scalable and transferable solution.